Support tools and technologies

Ref. FTECASS

Assistive technologies are not just tools — they are bridges to inclusion, enabling everyone to participate fully in the digital world with autonomy, dignity, and equity.

Duration: 6 hours
Effort: 6 hours
Pace: Self paced
Languages: English and portuguese
1,244 already enrolled!

What you will learn

Review and understand basic concepts of accessibility and assistive technologies
Identify software and accessibility‐focused features, such as text‐to‐speech and keyboard navigation
Identify and use adapted hardware and peripherals, including controllers and Braille technologies
Apply accessibility best practices in product development, such as websites
Develop strategies to integrate assistive technologies across different contexts, promoting inclusion
Analyse and apply Portuguese and European standards related to accessibility

Description

This course covers the main assistive tools and technologies, focusing on how technology can become more accessible through adapted software and hardware. Participants will review basic accessibility concepts, as well as software and plugins that support more inclusive technology use. They will also explore adapted devices designed for people with functional limitations. The course further addresses strategies for implementing these technologies in different contexts. Through practical examples and case studies, participants will be equipped to promote inclusion and accessibility within their products and workplaces. In addition, the course will examine Portuguese and European standards related to accessibility.

Assessment and certification

At the end of each module, in order to assess your progress, you will complete a test with a compulsory learning check, which will account for 50% of the final grade.

At the end of the course, you will take a Final Assessment Test worth 50% of the final mark.

Course plan

Part I – Foundations of Technological Accessibility
Module 1: Introduction to Digital Accessibility
Module 2: Assistive Technologies – Overview

Part II – Assistive Software and Digital Features
Module 3: Screen Readers and Alternative Navigation
Module 4: Web Tools and Plugins
Module 5: Accessible Software Evaluation

Part III – Hardware and Adapted Devices
Module 6: Alternative Input Devices
Module 7: Tactile and Braille Technologies

Part IV – Implementation, Strategy and Standards
Module 8: Integration Strategies
Module 9: Standards and the Future of Accessibility

License

License for the course content

Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives

You are free to:

Share — copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format

Under the following terms:

Attribution — You must give appropriate credit, provide a link to the license, and indicate if changes were made. You may do so in any reasonable manner, but not in any way that suggests the licensor endorses you or your use.
NonCommercial — You may not use the material for commercial purposes.
NoDerivatives — If you remix, transform, or build upon the material, you may not distribute the modified material.